PUPILS have been proving that you’re never to young to learn first aid skills.

The youngsters, from Oakhurst Community Junior School, were given the chance to get hands on with bandages while learning some key life skills about how to deal with medical emergencies and simple biology of how certain organs in the body work.

The Meditec Mini Lifesavers course teaches young people from six to 16 how to identify and manage hazards and how to keep themselves and others safe during an emergency first aid situation.

The course, which is six hours long and split over two sessions, has been designed by Meditec’s managing director Andy Memory, who has been working closely with headteacher Dale Burr.

“It provides children with the opportunity to become what we call mini lifesavers,” said Mr Burr.

“It’s a great opportunity for children to become aware of precautions which can minimise the risk of accidents.

“The children were so enthusiastic. They have learnt a huge amount of skills which is vitally important for them to protect themselves. There’s nothing they didn’t enjoy.”

Ten-year-old Lauren Baker, of Oakhurst, took part in the class with nine other pupils.

“I think it was the best experience in first aid I have ever had,” she said.

“I had so much fun and I can’t wait to do it again. It was quite cool because you got to use the bandages and learn at the same time.”

Mr Burr is hoping to get all 260 of his pupils trained in first aid. All the pupils were issued with first aid certificates of attendance and exclusive Meditec Mini Lifesavers badges.

Mr Memory, who also led the course, said: “Our mini lifesavers will learn how to treat injuries, how to respond to emergencies and, ultimately, how to save lives.

“It’s a life skill, no one ever thinks they need first aid until something happens. It is such a life skill and the children are so capable of learning.”

The Meditec Mini Lifesaver course is offered to children at various venues across the south west of England and they hold full training consultation with schools, youth groups, scout, guides and beaver groups and local authorities.

For more information visit the website at www.meditec-training.co.uk